Gear Talk:Mikey Kratzer

Gear Talk:
Mikey Kratzer

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March 21, 2024

Gear Talk:
Mikey Kratzer

Mike Kratzer on his essentials for his Speed Project Solo, running 500k through the desert from Los Angeles to Las Vegas in less than five days.

New Balance More Trail

For these shoes it’s all about feeling. The ultra cushioned sole safes my legs for long distance runs, perfect for the TSP Solo. I’m running with these or other NB’s for a very long time now and I’ve never had any issues with either quality and last.

Near Earth Socks

I absolutely love the approach: minimalist branding and maximum quality. They are super clean, I’ve never had a blister, and they keep my feet happy over any distance or surface.

Cimoro Running Vest

This vest is custom made for my needs. It’s tailored for a minimalist approach while being out there. Every pocket is placed perfectly for me. I discussed the whole concept with Alasdair and he then made it by hand. It’s built for me and built to last.

Leki Poles

These poles are super supportive during uphills on runs or and in races that are hilly or super long. They also take weight from my quads on downhills. They are the most lightweight and most durable sticks out there, in my opinion.

Petzl Light

It brightens my runs when the sun sets. It’s been super reliable and the way to exchange the extra batteries is super easy. This is top-notch technology. When I’m out there, it’s all about handling, design and robustness.

WORDS & IMAGES by MIKEY KRATZER

Use Case

Intended use case by the brand, broken down into three categories: Trail, Road, and Race

Cushion

The softness of the shoe’s sole, determined by it’s use of foam. More cushioning increases the level of impact protection while running with minimal cushioning comes closer to a natural running experience (e.g. barefoot). Since there are different types of foams, the equation of “the more foam the softer” does not always work. It is crucial to consider which type of foam it is. Ranging from Hard to Super Soft.

Padding

The amount of padding in the upper. Ranging from No Padding to Very Padded.

Flexibility

The ability to flex when compressed from heel to toe and when twisted. Flexibility and Stability are highly interdependent. As a rule of thumb you can say: the more flexible, the less stable. Ranging from Stiff to Flexible.

Stability

The amount of support provided to the natural rolling movement of the foot. The main factors influencing stability are the sole’s construction and its width. The construction of the upper and the type of lacing can also add to stability. Special Lacing is not considered within this category. Ranging from Free to Supportive.

Traction

The ability of the shoe to maintain stable contact with the ground, mostly determined by the construction of the sole. Added components from external brands such as Vibram or Megagrip can highly influence traction. Ranging from Slick to Very Grippy.

Breathability

The overall mesh density of the upper. Ranging from closed to open

Propulsion

The amount of forward pushing energy return determined by the construction of the sole. Various sole types can add a propulsive effect to the sole such as a Rocker construction or a carbon plate in combination with an energy-returning foam. Ranging from Relaxed to Aggressive.

Drop

The difference in height from heel to forefoot. Ranging from 0mm to 12mm.

Stack Height

Width

The shoes overall width at its base. This category only refers to the upper to provide information for the overall fit. Ranging from Narrow to Wide.

Width

The overall weight of the shoe. For comparison, we always use the weight of size US 9 for men. Ranging from Ultra Light to Heavy—Ultra Light (<240g), Lightweight (240–280g), Medium (280–320g), Heavy: (>320g).

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